Surrey RCMP is advising the public about a sexual assault incident that occurred in the Cloverdale area this morning and is appealing for any further information that may lead to the identity of a suspect.
On October 17th at approximately 7:50am, Surrey RCMP received a report of a female student who was on her way to school when she was allegedly grabbed from behind and groped by an unknown male in the 18800 block of 69th Avenue near Clayton Heights Secondary. The 15 year old victim reported that she managed to free herself from the suspect and run back home.
The suspect male fled on foot. Surrey RCMP General Duty officers were immediately dispatched to the area but the suspect was not located.
The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, in his 30’s or 40’s, wearing a dark hoody and grey and blue washed out jeans. The victim was not injured.
The Surrey RCMP’s Special Victims Unit is investigating the incident. Officers are looking into whether this incident is related to any other similar incidents. Officers are also working with school officials to remind students and parents about general safety tips. The Surrey School District has sent a letter home to notify parents of this incident.
Surrey RCMP reminds students who are walking to school to follow a few simple steps to heighten their safety, including:
Don’t take short cuts. Use main routes and avoid lanes, forested or secluded areas.
Walk with friends.
Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.
Phone home when leaving a friend’s house and say when you will be home.
Trust your instincts and your feelings.
Phone home if you are going to be delayed, or if your plans change
Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502. If they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.